Agilent ICP-MS Journal (February 2021, Issue 83)

Significance of the Topic

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a cornerstone technique for trace and major element analysis across sectors such as environmental monitoring, food safety, pharmaceuticals, and clinical research. Its ability to measure multiple elements in a single run, achieve ultralow detection limits, and handle high matrix samples makes it ideal for meeting strict regulatory standards and fast turnaround demands.

Objectives and Study Overview

This issue of the Agilent ICP-MS Journal presents three complementary advances aimed at simplifying routine ICP-MS workflows and extending its analytical power: the introduction of the Agilent 7850 single quadrupole ICP-MS with enhanced usability features; the IntelliQuant software function for semiquantitative full-spectrum profiling in food analysis; and an automated multi-element speciation platform integrating HPLC and ICP-MS using a Quick Change valve head.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Agilent 7850 is built on the 7800 platform and incorporates Ultra-High Matrix Introduction (UHMI) technology for direct analysis of up to 1 % total dissolved solids without sample pretreatment, and an ORS4 helium collision cell for robust interference removal. The system is managed via ICP-MS MassHunter version 5.1, which features an improved Method Wizard, pre- and post-run self-checks, Early Maintenance Feedback (EMF), and an integrated Help & Learning Center. An optional browser-based ICP-Go interface and preset analyzers further streamline regulated method deployment.

For food profiling, IntelliQuant employs a two-second full-mass scan in He mode with KED to provide semiquantitative concentrations for up to 78 elements in each sample, visualized as a periodic table heat map. This approach requires no additional calibration or sample preparation beyond the quantitative run.

The automated speciation workflow couples an Agilent 1260 Infinity II quaternary HPLC with Quick Change 4-column-selector valve head to an Agilent 7900 ICP-MS. Three established methods for As(III)/As(V) (anion exchange), methylmercury (C18), and bromine/iodine species (anion exchange) run sequentially in a single unattended sequence, with automatic solvent and column switching controlled through MassHunter.

Main Results and Discussion

The Agilent 7850 achieves consistent, interference-free results across trace to major concentrations (0.1 ppt to >1000 ppm) using a single low-gain detector range, eliminating over-range reruns. UHMI and ORS4 substantially reduce sample preparation steps and method development time. IntelliQuant successfully identified unexpected high levels of tungsten in dark chocolate (∼1.2 mg/kg) and titanium in confectionery samples, enhancing confidence in data quality and reducing reruns. The multi-method speciation sequence delivered highly reproducible retention times and peak areas over three days, confirming system stability and enabling true overnight operation.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Reduced sample prep and calibration effort through UHMI and He collision mode.
• Streamlined method creation and maintenance with MassHunter Wizard and EMF.
• Enhanced data confidence by semiquantitative full-spectrum profiling via IntelliQuant.
• Unattended, high-throughput multi-element speciation using automated column and solvent switching.

Future Trends and Possibilities

Continued integration of advanced hardware automation with intelligent software promises to further democratize ICP-MS operation for novice users and boost productivity in high-throughput labs. Expanding the range of semiquantitative screening capabilities and coupling to diverse separation techniques (e.g., IC, GC) will broaden applications in metabolomics, isotope tracing, and environmental fate studies.

Conclusion

Agilent’s latest enhancements—from the user-friendly 7850 ICP-MS and IntelliQuant profiling to fully automated multi-method speciation—address key time-consuming steps in routine workflows. By combining robust hardware with intuitive software and flexible automation, laboratories can achieve faster setup, higher confidence in results, and greater overall throughput.

References

• Enhanced Helium Collision Mode with Agilent ORS4 Cell, Agilent Publication 5994-1171EN.
• Jenny Nelson et al., Determination of Critical Elements in Foods per US FDA EAM 4.7, Agilent Publication 5994-2839EN.
• Automated Sequencing of Elemental Speciation Methods Using HPLC-ICP-MS with a Quick Change Valve Head, Agilent Publication 5994-2943EN.